DANVILLE, IN (March 27, 2014) – The Indiana Short Film Festival, the only Central Indiana event solely dedicated to independent short films, is accepting submissions through July 1. All movies must be under 40 minutes to qualify as a short film.

Submissions for the October event have been accepted since the beginning of the year. More than 25 entries representing filmmakers from California, Texas, Florida, Illinois and Indiana and international entries from Canada, Croatia and Serbia already have been received. Movie directors and producers from outside the U.S. had a strong showing in 2013 from Spain, Australia, Ireland and Sweden. National as well as international interest in this festival is expected to grow in 2014.

The Indiana Short Film Festival experienced a break-through year in 2013 with 85 entries received and 64 making the cut to be shown on the big screen. Those numbers far surpassed any previous years’ level of screenings.

A panel of judges will determine which films make it onto the big screen during the festival as not all entries will be selected for viewing. The judges’ ratings will determine a grand jury winner. Audience ratings and feedback coupled with the judges’ score will determine the winners of each genre.

Directors and producers whose films make the final cut are encouraged to attend the festival and take part in a question-and-answer session with audience members following the screening of their films. A VIP, meet-and-greet event that includes wine and appetizers is also scheduled during the weekend of the festival. This exclusive opportunity allows the filmmakers to personally interact with fans to get immediate feedback on their work and for film goers to get to know up-and-coming movie talent.

In previous years, a student-directed category was part of the festival. This year students are encouraged to enter the general genres for submission including animation, comedies, documentaries, drama, horror and more.

There is no fee to submit a film to the Indiana Short Film Festival. To submit a short film or for more information, visit the website at www.INShortFilmFest.com

The event will be held Oct. 10 and 11 in the historic Royal Theater, located on the Hendricks County Courthouse Square in Danville, Ind.